How did New York City establish its landmark preservation movement, and what political mechanisms were required to codify the protection of its architectural heritage? Anthony Wood, a veteran of the preservation movement, examines the evolution of New York's landmark laws from the early 20th century through the establishment of the Landmarks Preservation Commission. He utilizes primary source documents, legislative records, and personal accounts to argue that the protection of the city's built environment was a hard-won victory against unchecked urban development and political indifference.

Experts and urban historians frequently cite this work as a definitive account of the legislative history behind New York's preservation movement. Readers often note the meticulous detail provided regarding the bureaucratic hurdles faced by early activists in the city.